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Quizzes
The Almanac Gardener "Quiz of the Week" has been discontinued for this season. However, the past quizzes and answers will still be made available as an information resource.
2008 - 2007 - 2006 - 2005 - 2004 - 2003 - 2002 - 2001
April 18, 2008
Quiz Winners:
Judson Wolfe, Paola Zamora, Darren Pelkey, Julia Rahmes, Miranda Allen
1.What are the three basic items you need for a good garden?
A. Sunlight, Water, and Good Fertilizer
B. Water, Good Soil, and Good Fertilizer
C. Sunlight, Water, and Good Soil
D. Water, Red Clay, and Sunlight
Answer is C. sunlight, water and good soil are the three ingredients needed for a good garden.
2. NC is the only state in the US that offers free soil testing.
A. True
B. False
Answer is A. True
3. Is it a good idea to have a difference height for the front and back of your cold frame?
A. Yes
B. No
Answer is A. It is better to have an angle for your cold frame in order to use sunlight more effectively.
4. Should you plant cabbage and tomatoes at the same time?
A. Yes
B. No
Answer is B. Cabbage can handle temperatures below freezing, but tomatoes cannot. You need to wait until the weather is warm enough for the tomatoes.
April 25, 2008
Quiz Winner: Juliette Faison Murray
1. Is it a good idea to have a difference height for the front and back of your cold frame?
A. Yes
B. No
Answer is A. It is better to have an angle for your cold frame in order to use sunlight more effectively.
2. Should you plant cabbage and tomatoes at the same time?
A. Yes
B. No
Answer is B. Cabbage can handle temperatures below freezing, but tomatoes cannot. You need to wait until the weather is warm enough for the tomatoes.
May 10, 2008
Quiz Winner: James Shumate
1. Which of the following is not one of the tips Karen mentioned for finding a Professional Tree Care company?
A. Ask For References
B. Get more than one Quote
C. Hire someone who knocks on your door
D. None of the above
Answer is C. Never hire someone who knocks on your door. Most times they are not licensed and normally they prey on people after major storms.
2. Most Hostas are happiest with full sun and no shade.
A. True
B. False
Answer is B. Hostas are happiest with morning sun and afternoon shade.
May 24, 2008
Quiz Winner: Grace Kellum
1.What days does Bill suggest to fertilize grass for shady areas?
A. Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Valentines Day
B. Memorial Day, Labor Day and Christmas
C. Christmas, Fourth of July and Columbus Day
D. New Years Day, Memorial Day and the Fourth of July
Answer is A. Bill also said to never fertilize after Valentines Day as it will be too late and may damage the grass.
2. Native Jack in the Pulpit likes dry, arid areas.
A. True
B. False
Answer is B. False.
May 31, 2008
Quiz Winner: Stuart Cameron
June 7, 2008
Quiz Winner: Charles Hodson
1. According to AG – 189 what are the two types of weevils that attack Rhododendrons?
A. Red Vine and Lace
B. Black Vine and Lace
C. Japanese and Red Vine
D. None of the above
The answer is D. The two types of weevils that attack Rhododendrons are Black vine and Japanese.
2. According to AG – 472 – 3, Pine Voles cause damage and live above ground
A. True
B. False
The answer is B. eyes and ears are not visible; tail is shorter than hind legs; fur is reddish brown; slightly smaller than meadow vole (3 inches long, weighs 1 ounce or less); lives and causes damage below the ground.
June 14, 2008
Quiz Winner: Carolyn Day
1. If you have a large tree and decide to do a soil drench to treat your Hemlock tree, it is ok to use it near your well or water source.
A. True
B. False
The answer is B. It is recommended that you contact an Arborist to inject your tree so as not to contaminate your water supply.
2. You need to keep your mushroom kit in an area with a temperature between ___ and ___ degrees.
A. 80 and 90 degrees
B. 45 and 63 degrees
C. 63 and 68 degrees
D. Temperature does not matter.
The answer is C.
June 21, 2008
Quiz Winner: Jody Eriksson
1. Broccoli is a cool season crop. That means that it can be grown in the ____ and _____.
A. Winter and Spring
B. Fall and Winter
C. Spring and Summer
D. Fall and Spring
The answer is D. If you want to grow spring broccoli, set your plants out in March. If you want to have a fall crop, set your plants out in August. Just be careful not to expose your plants to temperatures about 80 degrees.
2. Which of the following is not one of the major users of water in your home?
A. Dishwasher
B. Toilet
C. Hot Water Heater
D. None of the above
The answer is C.
June 28, 2008
Quiz Winner: Anna Pliszka
1. When you are setting up a cisturn, it is ok to place it directly on the ground.
A. True
B. False
Answer is B. False. According to Karen Neill, you need to place your cistern on a sturdy, solid surface to avoid cracking and for sustainability purposes.
2. How often should you water sprouts?
A. Twice a day
B. Three times a day
C. Four times a day
D. All of the above
The answer is D. Linda said to water your sprouts 2, 3, or 4 times a day making sure to thoroughly drain them after each watering.
July 5, 2008
Quiz Winner: Cindy Truelove
1. Only _____ of the annual 42 inches of rain actually becomes groundwater in streams.
A. 3 inches
B. 1 inch
C. 12 inches
D. None of the above
The answer is B.
2. When is the best time to put in sod?
A. Spring and Summer
B. Spring and Fall
C. Winter and Spring
D. Fall and Winter
The answer is B.
July 12 and 19, 2008
Quiz Winners: Arnold Sharpe and Mack Haywood
1. When is the best time to plant a cover crop from the winter?.
A. August
B. September
C. October
D. November
The answer is C.
2. Beets are a cool season crop.
A. True
B. False
The answer is A.
July 26, 2008
Quiz Winner: John Barnhart
1. How many types of lettuce did the Children’s Home sell to local restaurants this year?
A. 3
B. 5
C. 1
D. 9
The answer is B.
2. It is illegal to shoot a Groundhog because they are a protected species.
A. True
B. False
The answer is B. False.
August 2, 2008
Quiz Winner: Patricia LeMoine
1.Trees can heal wounds.
A.True
B. False
The answer is B. False.
2.When dry stacking stones, you need to use a lot of mortor.
A.True
B. False
The answer is B. False
August 9, 2008
Quiz Winner: Victoria McLamb
1.Berms need to be perpendicular to the way water flows in your yard or garden.
A.True
B. False
The answer is A. True. If berms were parallel it would not prevent run off.
2. Three things Bill Lord talked about getting from growing broccoli are broccoli heads, side shoots, and __________.
A. Cabbage leaves
B. Florets
C. Slaw
D. None of the above
The answer is C. Slaw.
Episode 2401 – April 8, 2007
Starting a Spring Vegetable Garden
Winner: Nancy Butterfield
1. According to Hort Leaflet #604, what types of plants should you use to protect plants from cold damage?
A. Ornamental Grasses
B. Varieties that are hardy to your area
C. Evergreen plants
D. All of the above
Answer is B. Plant only varieties that are hardy to your area.
According to the Hort Website Vegetable Garden Planting Guide: Spring, when is the best time to plant Watermelons?
A. Feb. 1 – Apr. 15
B. Apr. 20 – July 15
C. Aug. 1 - Aug. 31
D. Apr. 15 – June 1
Answer is D. Watermelons should be planted between April 15th and June 1st.
Episode 2402 – April 15, 2007
Three Popular North Carolina Strawberry Varieties
Winner: Steve Smith
1. According to Hort Leaflet #8205, Strawberries in the Home Garden, When is the best time to perform a soil test before planting?
A. 2 to 3 weeks before planting
B. 3 months before planting
C. No soil testing is needed
D. 4 to 6 months before planting
Answer is D. 4 to 6 months before planting.
It is best to test the soil four to six months before planting. If the pH is too low, raise it to the level suggested by the soil test with dolomitic lime. Strawberries require a soil pH in the range of 5.5 to 6.5.
2. According to Hort Leaflet #8107, Growing Tomatoes for Home Use, If no soil test is performed, what can be mixed with ¾ cup of lime for each plant?
A. ½ cup of sulfer
B. ½ cup of 8-8-8
C. ¼ cup of gypsum
D. 3/4 cup of 10-10-10
Answer is B. ½ cup of 8-8-8
If no soil test has been taken, apply 3/4 cup of lime and 1/2 cup of 8-8-8 fertilizer for each plant. Lime will help reduce nutrient imbalances, particularly with calcium and help control the blossom end rot problem that occurs so frequently on tomatoes.
Episode 2403 – April 22, 2007
Planting Bare Root Roses
Winner: Walter King
1. According to Karen Neill, how long should you soak a Rose plant before planting it?
A. 12 Hours
B. 8 hours
C. At least 1 hour
D. You do not need to soak before planting.
Answer is C.
Rose plants should be soaked at least 1 hour, but no longer than 6.
2. Linda Blue recommends filling a spreader with fertilizer on the lawn.
A. True
B. False
Answer is B. False.
If you fill the spreader on your lawn you risk spillage and burnt areas.
Episode 2404 – April 29, 2007
Using Native Stone in Your Landscape
Winner: Stephanie Kubilus
1. The three types of stone most commonly used for building retaining walls are sand stone, quarried stone and _____________.
A. Field Stone
B. Valley Stone
C. Black Stone
D. Red Stone
Answer is A. Field Stone
2. Pesticides should be applied when there is rain in the forecast.
A. True
B. False
Answer B. False
Episode 2405 – May 6, 2007
Carolina Yards and Neighborhoods-9 Principles of Landscape Design
Winner: Jerry Redmond
1. Why do people want Organic Fruits and Vegetables?
A. Food Safety
B. It is better for the environment
C. Organics taste better
D. None of the above
Answer is A. Consumers want to know what types of chemicals are being used on foods they consume.
2. Can Hydrogen Peroxide be used for Organic Disease control?
A. Yes
B. No
Answer is A. Hydrogen Peroxide can be used, but in a more concentrated form.
Episode 2406 – May 12
Growing Container Vegetables
Winner: Jeana Douros
1. What is the best month to plant flowers when using black plastic?
A. April
B. May
C. June
D. July
Answer B. May. If you wait until June or July the plastic will get too hot and burn your flowers.
2. Should drainage holes be drilled into the bottom of container pots?
A. Yes
B. No
Answer. B Drainage holes should be drilled into the sides to insure proper drainage.
Episode 2407 – May 19
Growing Mushrooms at Home
Winner: Scott Hyder
1. How many times can a mushroom kit be harvested?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 5
Answer C. According to Karen Neill, you can get 3 or 4 crops of mushrooms with one kit. The first two crops will yield the most mushrooms.
2. When is the best time to get a mushroom cutting?
A. Morning
B. Afternoon
C. Evening
D. Midnight
Answer A. Morning is the best time to get a cutting.
Episode 2408 – May 26
Master Gardener Legacy Garden
Winner: Sheila Barnes
1. If you are planning on planting tomatoes and peppers you should use Black Plastic Mulch.
A. True
B. False
Answer is A. True. Black Plastic Mulch is better for tomatoes and peppers
2. How big is the Master Gardener Legacy Garden?
A. ½ Acre
B. 2 Acres
C. ¼ Acre
D. 1 Acre
Answer is D. 1 Acre.
Episode 2409 – June 2
The Right Way to Prune Trees
Winner: Kim Greene
1. How many acres of Seedless Watermelon does Mr. Brantley Farm?
A. 25
B. 35
C. 75
D. 100
Brantley Farms has 100 acres of seedless watermelon.
2. When do they start seeding for germination?
A. March
B. February
C. January
D. May
Answer: A. March. They start the germination process in mid march in Greenhouses.
Episode 2410 – June 9
Plants for a Rock Garden
Winner: Robert Teeple
1. Permatil is a North Carolina made product?
A. True
B. False
Answer is A. True
2. Baptisia, Clamatis, and __________ are a few of the native North Carolina plants used in Tony Avents’s Rock Garden.
A. Rose
B. Daisy
C. Orchid
D. Iris
Answer is D. Iris
Episode 2411 – June 16
Building a Dry Stack Wall
Winner: Phillip Talpers
1. Although Cyclamens is considered a tropical plant, it prefers a temperature of about ________?
A. 55 degrees
B. 70 degrees
C. 45 degrees
D. 85 degrees
Answer is A. 55 degrees. Once it reaches around 70 degrees the plant will start to fade.
2. What is an item that can be grown in a garbage garden?
A. Sweet Potato
B. Pineapple Tops
C. Carrot Tops
D. All of the above
Answer is D All of the above.
Episode 2412 – June 23
Schools Out – Kids in the Garden
Winner: Michele Cosper
1. Although Cyclamens is considered a tropical plant, it prefers a temperature of about ________?
A. 55 degrees
B. 70 degrees
C. 45 degrees
D. 85 degrees
Answer is A. 55 degrees. Once it reaches around 70 degrees the plant will start to fade.
2. What is an item that can be grown in a garbage garden?
A. Sweet Potato
B. Pineapple Tops
C. Carrot Tops
D. All of the above
Answer is D All of the above.
Episode 2413 - June 30
Rain Garden at the Town Hall in Cary
Winner: Karen Elsken
1. How long can the plants in a rain garden be under water?
A. 3 hours
B. 1 day
C. 3 days
D. None of the Above
Answer C. 3days. The plants can be under water for as many as 3 days.
2. What type of log is best for growing Shitakes Mushrooms?
A. Pine
B. Oak
C. Dogwood
D. Cedar
Answer is B. Oak.
Episode 2414 - July 7
Marie Dalton, National Gardening Contest Winner
Winner: Larry Jones
1. The three “rooms” in Marie Dalton’s garden are: The Garden Room, The Picture Room, and ______________________?
A. Blue Rock
B. Black Rock
C. River Rock
D. Red Rock
Answer is C. River Rock.
2. If your Nellie R. Stevens Holley has yellow leaves in the spring, what is the problem?
A. Disease
B. Nothing
C. Pest
D. None of the Above
Answer is B. Nothing. As long as there is new growth on the plant, the yellowing leaves are old and naturally dying off.
Episodes 2415 - July 14
Growing Grass in the Shade
Winner: Arnold Sharpe
1. What is the ratio of seed Bill said should be planted to produce grass in the shade?
A. 3 – 3 – 3
B. 3 – 1 – 1
C. 5 – 3 – 2
D. 5 – 1 – 1
Answer is D. 5 – 1 – 1
2. How many people visit the Ability Garden per year?
A. 3000
B. 1000
C. 200
D. 10000
Answer is A. 3000
Episode 2416 - July 22
Jack in the Pulpit
Winner: Jeff Gunnell
1. Native Jack in the Pulpit likes a very dry climate?
A. True
B. False
Answer is B. False
2. How long will the Battery pack from the Solar Energy System normally last?
A. 30 min
B. 45 min
C. 1 hour
D. 3 hours
Answer is C. 1 hour
Episode 2417 - July 29
Growing Raspberries Update
Winner: Daisy Burns
1. What is the name of the variety of Raspberry bill has planted in his garden?
A. Caroline
B. Heritage
C. Colonial
D. Marsupial
Answer is A. Caroline
2. What is the first step in laying sod?
A. Till the soil.
B. Do a soil sample analysis.
C. Buy your sod.
D. Rake your soil.
Answers is B. Take a soil sample and have it analyzed to determine if your soil needs amending.
Episode 2418 - August 5
Native Grasses or Ways to Conserve Water
Winner: Randy James
1. When is the best time to spray for Hemlock pests?
A. September & March
B. June & August
C. December & July
D. April & May
Answer is A. September or October and March or April are the best months to spray for Hemlock Pests.
2. Reclaimed water is drinkable.
A. True
B. False
Answer is B. False. Although reclaimed water has been treated and is very clean, it can not be used for Drinking Water.
Episode 2419 - August 12
Improving Your Garden Soil
Winner: Eileen Gregory
1. What is the name of the organic matter Bill used in his garden area in the winter?
A. Alfalfa
B. Crimson Clover
C. Sunflowers
D. Wheat Grass
Answer is B. Crimson Clover
2. Is it safer to eat an unwashed Organic Apple?
A. Yes
B. No
Answer is B. No. All fruit should be washed before eating.
Episode 2301
Choosing the Right Mulch for Your Landscape
How much mulch should you have over your soil?
1-2 inches
3-4 inches
5-6 inches
7-8 inches
Answer: B. According to the Horticultural Leaflet on mulches, you should apply much about 3-4 inches over clean, weed-free soil.
Planting Bare Root Roses
What is the best sun/shade combination for roses?
Full sun all day long
Shade in morning, sun in afternoon
Sun in morning, shade in afternoon
Partial sun all day
Answer: C. The ideal site for roses is one which offers full sun early in the morning, and late afternoon shade. This will allow foliage and buds to dry early in the day, which will discourage diseases. Shade in the afternoon will encourage the development of good flower color.
Winner: Don Revell
Episode 2302
Growing Organic Strawberries
What should you do in your new strawberry plants are light green and not growing well?
Give them more water.
Make sure they are getting enough sun.
Make the soil more acidic.
Sidedress with nitrogen.
Answer: D. Nitrogen can be added by applying either 1 1/2 pound ammonium nitrate per 100 feet of row, or about 5 pounds 10-10-10 per 100 feet of row.
Selecting the Right Fertilizer for the Job
According to the Fact Sheet on fertilizing trees, what are the best methods for determining fertilizer application rates for deciduous trees?
Surface area and length of branches
Diameter of trunk and crown spread area
Crown spread area and branch length
Diameter of root spread and distance between longest branches
Answer: B. Application rates for fertilizer for deciduous trees are best determined by two methods: measuring the diameter of the trunk and the crown spread area. The fact sheet on fertilizing trees has the formulas for determining how to measure both.
Winner: Teresa Capen
Episode 2303
Blooming Dogwoods
What kind of problem is your dogwood susceptible to if you hit it with the lawnmower?
Dogwood borer larvae
Dogwood anthracnose
Spot anthracnose
Septoria leafspot
Answer: A. The dogwood borer larvae is mainly a problem to trees which have been physically injured (lawnmowers or weedeaters too close to trunk) as the larvae need an injured area in order to penetrate the bark. The larvae can eventually kill the tree, whereas the other fungi, while they damage the leaves, do not cause any permanent damage to the tree.
Using Fertilizer Correctly
What is absolutely essential before determining the type or amount of fertilizer you will need for any plant?
The plant should have a full set of leaves.
The roots should have had time to spread at least half an inch.
A soil test must be conducted.
Nothing—it's important to put plants on a regular fertilizer schedule.
Answer: C. Fertilizer adds nutrients to the soil. Therefore, before you plant, study the nutrient requirements of the plant. Then, take a soil test, offered free through the NC Cooperative Extension, to determine the nutrient composition and pH of the soil. After you know what is in your soil, you can purchase fertilizer to add the nutrients it lacks or change the pH to the plant's needs.
Winner: Betty Thompson
Episode 2304
Growing Colorful Amaryllis
What is the one medium that you CANNOT use for amaryllis?
Peat
Pine bark
Top soil
Perlite
Answer: B. Amaryllis do not grow well in pine bark, so be sure not to use it in the soil mixture.
Growing Potatoes
What problem do potato plants have if the soil pH is too high?
Verticillium wilt
Soft rot
Scab
Rhizoctonia canker
Answer: C. Common scab results when the soil pH is too high. Verticillium wilt and Rhizoctonia canker are caused by fungi, while soft rot is caused by bacteria.
Winner: Rhodeena Gonzales
Episode 2305
Growing Colorful Cut Flowers
According to the Guide for Successful Mum Production , when should you pinch your rooted cuttings of chrysanthemums?
After the plants have become established and are actively growing
When the first buds appear
Immediately after purchase
As the flowers begin to wilt and die
Answer: A. Rooted cuttings should be pinched 7 to 14 days after potting, after the plants have become established and are actively growing, or 1 to 1 ½ inches of new top growth has developed and the roots are visible at the side of the tray pack.
Identifying and Controlling Weeds in Your Lawn
What are the two classifications of perennial weeds?
Creeping and simple
Flowering and non-flowering
Rhizomes and dicots
Summer and winter
Answer: A. Perennial weeds are classified by their method of reproduction, or creeping and simple.
Winner: Arnold Sharpe
Episode 2306
Growing Cyclamen
What is the best temperature range for cyclamen?
40-75
50-65
65-80
40-55
Answer: B. Cyclamen grow best if the temperature does not go above 65 degrees during the day and below 50 degrees at night.
Growing Watermelons
What is the name of the production method to obtain a seedless fruit?
Diploid hybrid
Triploid hybrid
Tetraploid hybrid
Polyploid hybrid
Answer: B. Seedless cultivars are produced by crossing a tetraploid (4X=44) inbred line as the female parent with a diploid (2X=22) inbred line as the male parent of the hybrid. See the Cucurbin Breeding site to find out more.
Winner: Debbie Edwards
Episode 2307
Pruning Trees
According to the horticultural leaflet on Pruning Trees and Shrubs in the Urban Horticulture site, what is the best technique to use when pruning a tree?
Cutting flush with the trunk
The flush-cut-paint technique
The 3-part cut
Prune only small branches—large branches are not recommended
Answer: C. For ages the flush-cut-paint technique was recommended, but this actually harms the tree more. The leaflet on Pruning Trees and Shrubs recommends the 3-part cut. Read the “pruning techniques” section in the pamphlet to learn more.
Micro-Sprinklers
According to the Efficient Irrigation leaflet at NC State Consumer Horticulture site, what is the “application rate” of a sprinkler system?
The rate at which the sprinkler applies water to the soil surface
The rate at which the water gets absorbed into the soil
The rate at which the sprinkler emits water
All of the above make up the “application rate.”
Answer: A. Application rate is the rate at which a sprinkler system applies water to the soil surface, measured in inches per hour. If application rates exceed the infiltration capacity (answer B) of the soil, then runoff occurs.
Winner: Ruth Rodriguez
Episode 2308
Controlling Weeds in Shrubs
Mulch around shrubs and trees is one of the best ways to control weeds. According to the fact sheet on mulching trees and shrubs, about how much mulch do you need to prevent weeds seeds from germinating?
1 to 3-inch layer
2- to 4-inch layer
4 to 6-inch layer
More than a 6-inch layer of mulch
Answer: B. The fact sheet on mulching trees and shrubs recommends applying a 2 to 4-inch layer to prevent weed seeds from germinating. Mulch should be applied after all weeds have been cleared from the area. Applying mulch over existing weeds will not stop them from growing through the mulch.
Building a Rain Barrel
Where should you place your rain barrel after it is completed?
In an open area
Under your gutters in the corner where the water runs onto the ground
Under the area of your roof where there is the most runoff
Connected to the downspout of your gutters
Answer: D. A rain barrel is connected to the downspout of your gutters, so it is important that a) you have gutters on your house, and b) that you keep them clean.
Winner: Heddy Paguio
Episode 2309
Poisonous Plants and Child Safety
The scientific name of poison sumac is:
Toxicodendron radicans
Toxicodendron pubescens
Toxicodendron vernix
Toxicodendron involutus
Answer: C. The first is the scientific name for poison ivy, the second for poison oak and the last one is not a plant at all. If you're not sure what any of these plants look like, click here for a good Web site to review.
Growing Grapes
According to the consumer leaflet on bunch grapes at the Consumer Horticulture site, what kills many popular bunch grapes in the coastal plain areas?
Pierce's disease
Vinifera
Overcropping
Vine borers
Answer: A. In coastal plain areas, Pierce's disease kills or shortens the life expectancy of many popular bunch grapes.
Winner: Sujittra Martin
Episode 2310
Growing a Tasty Crop of Sweet Corn
According to the commercial hort leaflet for sweet corn in the Consumer Horticulture Web site, what was the first variety of sweet corn?
Silverado
Papoon
Alpine
Silverqueen
Answer: B. According to the hort leaflet, the first variety of sweet corn, Papoon, was acquired from the Iroquois Indians in 1779. However, today it is not listed with varieties currently available.
Tour of West Bend Winery
According to this feature, in what year did North Carolina lead the country in winemaking? (hint—if you're not sure, you may want to watch the repeat of this episode on Thursday at 1:30 PM)
1910
1730
1835
2004
Answer: C. According to this feature, North Carolina led the country in making wine in 1835.
Winner: Laura Stowe
Episode 2311
Selecting Wildflowers for Your Landscape
According to the horticultural leaflet on weed management for wildflowers in the Consumer Horticulture site, what are the two difficult-to-control perennial weeds that may make you rethink your wildflower site?
Nutsedge and white clover
Blackberry and wild strawberry
Poison ivy and Virginia creeper
Japanese stiltgrass and loriape
Answer: A. According to the horticultural leaflet, if your area is infested with nutsedge and white clover, you may want to choose another site for wildflower plantings, because these two weeds are very difficult to eradicate. However, if you have any of the other weeds listed above, you will still have a challenge—especially if you have Japanese stiltgrass!
Early Vegetables from the Garden
In the Quick Reference link on the Consumer Horticulture site, there is a planting guide for spring vegetables. According to this, what is the minimum soil temperature for carrots?
35 degrees
45 degrees
55 degrees
65 degrees
Answer: B. Carrots are a cool weather vegetable, so they can tolerate a lower soil temperature up to 45 degrees F.
Winner: Brad Davis
Episode 2312
Picking Ripe Peaches
In the online extension bulletin on Growing Peaches in North Carolina, there is a section on fruit thinning. According to this section, what is the best time to thin the fruit for ALL peach trees?
In late June
Just after the fruit begins to form
After the pit has just hardened
Before pit hardening.
Answer: D. Although mid- to late-season varieties can be thinned later than early-season varieties, ALL peach trees must be thinned no later than pit hardening, or within 40 days of bloom, according to the extension bulletin .
Properly Disposing of Pet Waste
What is the best way to dispose of pet waste, according to Emily?
Put it in the garden
Put it in the compost pile
Put it in the trash can
Leave it where it is
Answer: C. Putting waste in the trash can is the best way to dispose of it. However, before you do so, check with your trash collection service to find out what you need to do to be sure it is collected (i.e., putting it in a bag, double-bagging, etc.). Pet waste adds bacteria to the soil and groundwater, which is why it is not a good idea to put it in your garden or compost pile. You can also bury it in an uncultivated spot, however.
Winner: Albert Brown
Episode 2313
Starting Shrubs from Cuttings
What do you NOT need when trying to start a new plant from a cutting?
Sunlight
Water
Rooting hormone
Fertilizer
Answer: D. Rooting hormone, water and sunlight are essential to propagating a new plant from a cutting. Fertilizer, on the other hand, will only damage it.
4-H Camp for At-Risk Teenagers/Ashe County
How is the 4-H program in Ashe County different from many of the other 4-H programs in the state?
It caters to adults.
It helps children learn about the environment.
It gives teenagers skills for the job market.
It is a year-round program.
Answer: C. The 4-H program in Ashe County helps students learn the skills to keep a job and compete in the job market.
Winner: Donna Lander
Episode 2314
Choosing the Right Mulch for Your Plants
If you want a mulch that will amend your soil, which mulch should you use?
Pea gravel
Pine bark mulch
Hardwood mulch
Only b and c
Any of the above
Answer: d. Only a mulch that breaks down into the soil can amend the soil. Pea gravel breaks down at a much slower rate than the bark mulches.
Water Conservation in Cary
According to the online extension bulletin on efficient irrigation, how far apart should you space your sprinklers?
30 to 40 percent of the wetted diameter
40-50 percent of the wetted diameter
50-60 percent of the wetted diameter
60-70 percent of the wetted diameter
Answer: c. According to the extension bulletin, the spacing between sprinklers should be about 50 to 60 percent of the wetted diameter. For example, sprinklers with a wetted diameter of 80 feet should be spaced 40 to 50 feet apart.
Winner: Lori McKay
Episode 2315
8 Steps to Take Before You Use Pesticides
According to Karen, when is the best time to apply pesticides?
Anytime
Early morning or late afternoon
Right before it rains
In the middle of the day
Answer: b. Since ozone is lowest early and late in the day, it's best to use pesticides then, so they don't hang in the air. Applying them before a heavy rain will wash them off of your plants and into the sediment, so that is not a good time to use pesticides. For more information on pest control, see the NC Cooperative Extension section on pest control .
Strawberry Cultivation During the Year
According to the fact sheet on strawberries , if you live in western Carolina, when should you apply mulch?
December
January
February
March
Answer: a. If you live in w estern Carolina, foothills and upper piedmont, in December, broadcast sufficient pine needles or grain straw in the middles and around the plants to protect crown. If you life in eastern Carolina or the central piedmont, apply pine needles or grain straw in February.
Winner: Jeff Gunnell
Episode 2316 - July 15, 2006
Pantry Pests
1. Go to the Consumer Horticulture Web site and click on Pest News – the lower half of the page on the left. In the 2006 subject index, click on Residences, Structures and Communities. What pest(s) appear(s) in the list when you click on it?
Fungicide and Nematicide Tests
Red mites
Ants
Aphids
Answer. b. Red mites. Fungicide and Nematicide Tests appear in the fruit and vegetable category, but under Residences, the list includes only red mites.
Water Reuse—A Way to Conserve Water
2. The following is a good example of water reuse:
Sprinkler irrigation
A soaker hose
A rain barrel
Watering with a hose
Answer: c. A rain barrel reuses the water collected from your gutter when it rains, so you don’t have to use the groundwater, as you do with sprinklers or hoses. Grey water is another example of water reuse.
Winner: Betsy Ferney
Episode 2317 July 22, 2006
Master Gardener Legacy Garden
In the Extension Master Gardener Web site, there is a page called “You Know You’re A Master Gardener When…” Which of the following statements appears on that page?
a. You like the smell of bug spray
b. You reschedule your Saturday so you can watch Almanac Gardener
c. You’ve finished horticulture 101 based on watching In The Garden with Bryce Lane every year
d. When considering your budget, plants are more important than groceries
Answer: d. While the first 3 might qualify for characteristics of Master Gardeners, only (d) is actually in that list on the Web site.
Growing Eggplant
According to Bill, how should you pick your ripe eggplant?
a. By holding them up by their crown
b. By cutting them off with a pair of shears
c. By twisting them until they fall off
d. By pulling them straight off the vine
Answer: b. Because of the thorns on top, the safest and least painful way to pick eggplant is by cutting them off with a pair of shears.
Winner: Jeff Gunnell
Episode 2318 - July 29, 2006
Solar Tools
What building is next to the NC State Solar House? Hint: The answer is in the NCSU Solar Center Web site.
The J.C. Raulston Arboretum
The Vet School
Nelson Hall
The McKimmon Center
Answer: d. The McKimmon Center. Go to The NCSU Solar Center Web site to find out more about the Solar House.
New Hanover Ability Garden
What is the horticultural facility adjacent to the Ability Garden?
The North Carolina Arboretum
The New Hanover Arboretum
The J.C. Raulston Arboretum
Coker Arboretum
Answer: b. The New Hanover Arboretum.
Winner: John Underwood
Episode 2319 – August 5
Sodding vs. Seeding New Lawns
If you can’t plant your grass immediately, according to the Carolina Lawns publication, which method of planting a lawn would be easiest and most effective?
Seeding
Sodding
Neither
Answer: a. Sod really needs to be planted within the first 48 hours after it has been harvested; otherwise, you must unroll and unstack it, keep it moist but not wet, and keep it in the shade. You can broadcast seed at any time, so it would be easiest if you have to wait for more than 2 days between purchase and planting.
Growing Poinsettias
According to Linda, where is the best place to place your poinsettia?
Near a window that gets direct sunlight
By the front door
Near a vent so it will stay warm
Someplace that gets a little sun and no drafts
Answer: d. Poinsettias are very picky about light and temperature, so being near a draft and in direct sunlight will cause it to age quickly.
Winner: Jake Martin
Episode 2320 – August 12
According to AG-598-04W: Christmas Trees (Mountains), what is the optimal soil p.H range for Cristmas Trees?
7.0 –7.3
4.3 – 4.7
5.5 – 5.8
5.3- 5.5
Answer: C Soil pH is often below the optimum range of 5.5 to 5.8.
When is a good time to apply compost to the vegetable garden?
In the spring
In the fall
In the winter
In the summer
Answer: B In the fall
Winner: Sheila Pendleton
Episode 2201
Identifying and Controlling Weeds in Your Lawn
What are the two classifications of perennial weeds?
Creeping and simple
Flowering and non-flowering
Rhizomes and dicots
Summer and winter
Answer: A. Perennial weeds are classified by their method of reproduction, or creeping and simple.
Growing Irish Potatoes
What problem do potato plants have if the soil pH is too high?
Verticilliumwilt
Soft rot
Scab
Rhizoctonia canker
Answer: C. Common scab results when the soil pH is too high. Verticilliumwilt and Rhizoctonia canker are caused by fungi, while soft rot is caused by bacteria.
Winner: Richard Gunther
Episode 2202
Selecting Colorful Plants for Your Butterfly Garden
What are the requirements for an effective butterfly garden?
Light, shelter, space and food
Color, shelter, water, food and place to raise young
Water, food, sweet aromas and different heights
Food, sunlight, open space and water
Answer: B. Butterflies need to be able to eat and drink as well as be protected and have a place to raise their larvae. Bright colors are important to attract them.
Selecting House Plants
If you do not have the time to care for a house plant, which would be a good plant for you?
Ficus
Peace lily
Dracaena
Pothos
Answer: D. Pothos. Linda Blue says that the pothos is a good indoor plant for someone who has a "brown thumb" or does not have the time to care for a house plant. However, the pothos leaves contain oxalate crystals, which are poisonous to pets, so beware if you have a cat or dog who likes to eat your plants.
Winner: Tanya Holt
Episode 2203
New Begonia Varieties
The tuberous begonia does best in what kind of light?
Full sun
Shade
Mostly sun
Partial shade
Answer: B. Shade. According to the Plant Fact Sheet for tuberous begonias, these flowers do best in shade.
Caring for House Plants
How much should you water a house plant?
Only when the soil is mostly dry
Every day
Once every 2 weeks
Every two days
Answer: A. House plants should be watered only when the soil is dry, and they should be in a container with drainage holes, set in a drip plate. Water enough so that the water appears in the drip plate and don’t water again until the soil is nearly dry.
Winner: Joy Widdman
Episode 2204
Selecting the Right Fertilizer for the Job
According to the Fact Sheet on fertilizing trees, what are the best methods for determining fertilizer application rates for deciduous trees?
Surface area and length of branches
Diameter of trunk and crown spread area
Crown spread area and branch length
Diameter of root spread and distance between longest branches
Answer: B. Application rates for fertilizer for deciduous trees are best determined by two methods: measuring the diameter of the trunk and the crown spread area. The fact sheet on fertilizing trees has the formulas for determining how to measure both.
Green Roof Garden
What kinds of plants are best to put on a green roof?
Annuals
Bulbs
Herbs
Succulents
Answer: D. Succulents are the best type of plant to tolerate the hot, dry conditions of a roof.
Winner: Matthew Johnson
Episode 2205
Growing Rosemary
What is the best method to start a new crop of rosemary?
Seed
Cuttings
Division
Layering
Answer: B. According to Emily Revels, horticultural agent for Cumberland County, the best way to propagate rosemary is to start with a 6-inch cutting and use a rooting hormone.
Shopping for Tomato Plants
If you buy an indeterminate type of tomato, what does Karen suggest to use to support its growth?
Trellis
Cage
Stake
Wire line on poles
Answer: C. A stake. You could probably also support the tomato plants using a trellis, depending on your space, but Karen doesn't mention that possibility in this episode. Indeterminate plants grow to be about 5-6 feet, so they would outgrow a cage or a wire line on poles (used to support bramble plants).
Winner: Sandra Biggerstaff
Episode 2206
Vermicomposting
Which substance is necessary for a worm composting bin, according to Linda Blue?
Limestone
Newspaper
Whole leaves
Grass clippings
Answer: B. While the others may be useful in a worm-composting bin, Linda recommends keeping newspaper on top because it holds the right amount of moisture needed for the worms to survive.
Landscaping Ideas to Increase the Value of Your Home
Besides adding curb appeal, landscaping is also good for:
Air quality
Wildlife
Water quality
All of the above
Answer: D. Good landscaping can benefit air quality, wildlife and water quality by providing more oxygen and good root systems that absorb extra nutrients.
Winner: Kate Crumley
Episode 2207
Growing Crinum Lilies.an Old Southern Favorite
Although crinum lilies originated in several countries, where do the majority of them come from?
South America
England
South Africa
Japan
Answer: C. The majority of crinum lilies come from South Africa.
Training Young Apple Trees
What is the ideal angle for apple tree branches?
45 degrees
90 degrees
30 degrees
60 degrees
Answer: B. So that the roots can benefit from the maximum amount of light, always train apple tree branches to grow at 90 degree angles. You can use a spreader to do this.
Winner: Kent Holmes
Episode 2208
New Petunia Varieties at the Raulston Arboretum
What quality do the new petunia varieties at the Raulston Arboretum have that is different from most petunia varieties?
They don't need water
They don't need fertilizer
They don't need sun
They don't need deadheading
Answer: D. The new varieties keep replacing the old flowers with new buds, so you don't have to deadhead them, but you do need to give them water, full sun and fertilizer in moderate amounts!
Keeping Kids Safe from Poisonous Plants
Amanita virosa is a highly toxic:
Mushroom
Flower
Vine
Shrub
Answer: A. Amanita virosa is the scientific name for the Death Angel, a deadly mushroom found in North Carolina. For more information, see the page on poisonous mushrooms at the Consumer Horticulture Web site.
Winner: Kris Toliver
Episode 2209
Growing Lantana.Thrives in Hot Weather
Which is a common cultivar of lantana?
'Mother Lode'
'Miss Huff'
'Edward Goucher'
'Red Fountain'
Answer: B. 'Miss Huff' is a cultivar of lantana that can survive the winters in the piedmont. 'Mother Lode' is a cultivar of golden creeping juniper, 'Edward Goucher' is a cultivar of abelia, and 'Red Fountain' is a rose. 'Miss Huff' was featured as a plant of the week on episode 10 of In the Garden with Bryce Lane in 2003.
Controlling Carpenter Bees
What is it important to do AFTER you have sprayed a carpenter bee tunnel?
Pull out the bee bodies
Remove the infected board and replace
Caulk the holes to seal them
Run like mad
Answer: C. While running might not be a bad idea after spraying a bee tunnel with insecticide, you definitely want to seal up the hole with caulk or a ball of aluminum foil. Do not use netting, as new bees will just chew through it. And don't simply trap the bees in the hole without spraying; they will dig a new tunnel.
Winner: James Lutz
Episode 2210
Growing Sweet Corn
According to the commercial hort leaflet for sweet corn in the Consumer Horticulture Web site, what was the first variety of sweet corn?
Silverado
Papoon
Alpine
Silverqueen
Answer: B. According to the hort leaflet, the first variety of sweet corn, Papoon, was acquired from the Iroquois Indians in 1779. However, today it is not listed with varieties currently available.
Controlling Canadian Geese in Your Landscape
According to Karen, what is the BEST way to control Canadian geese?
Getting a border collie
Growing shrubs
Poisoning them
Shooting them
Answer: A. Canadian geese are protected under the Migratory Bird Act, so it is against the law to kill them with poison or guns. Growing trees and shrubs can help alter the open habitat they love; however, Canadian geese can adapt to these as well, as they have been spotted in heavily wooded areas as long as there is a water source. The BEST way to keep geese away is to have a border collie who will scare them away and keep them from coming back.
Winner: Dale Payne
Episode 2211
Designer Mulch
Even though you can apply mulch at any time, when is the best time to apply mulch?
At the end of winter
Mid-spring
Summer
Fall
Answer: B. According to the Horticultural Leaflet on mulches (#608), the best time to apply mulch is in mid-spring, when the soil temperature has warmed up for sufficient root growth.
DOT Wildflowers (postponed from an earlier date)
During what year did the wildflower program begin?
1975
1980
1985
1990
Answer: C. The highway wildflower program began in 1985.
Winner: Kevin Pittman
Episode 2212
Selecting an Evergreen
If you want to plant a conifer in a wet area, which one would you choose?
Norfolk pine
Shore juniper
Bald cypress
White cedar
Answer: C. Linda Blue says that the bald cypress and Atlantic cedar (not the white cedar) do well in wet areas.
Plant a Row for the Hungry
How many plots does the community garden in Guilford County have for people who want to plant a row for the hungry?
35
50
20
75
Answer: A. The community garden contains 35 4 x 50 foot plots, and 10 percent of what is produced goes to the program.
Winner: Ethel Ahrendt
Episode 2213
Selecting Native Plants for Your Landscape
Which plant listed below is NOT considered an invasive exotic?
Mimosa
Hydrilla
Swamp mallow
Princess tree
Answer: C. The swamp mallow is a native marsh flower, even though it seems out of place. Read more about it at NC Natural.com.
Local Farmers Market Tour
Which farmers’ market would you visit if you were in Dallas, NC?
North End Green Market
Cornerstone Farm
Downtown Farmers Market
Gastonia Farmers Market
Answer: D. The Gastonia Farmers Market, despite the name, is in Dallas, NC.
Winner: Elizabeth Smith
Episode 2214
Winter Hardy Palms
A Rhapidophyllum hystrix is which type of palm ?
Windmill palm
Needle palm
Birmingham palm
Sable palm
Answer: B. The needle palm ( Rhapidophyllum hystrix ) occurs in the piedmont, more specifically in the Raleigh area.
Bogue Sound Watermelons
What is unique about the Bogue Sound watermelons?
Pattern on shell
Aroma
Taste
Growing requirements
Answer: C. According to Chris Pearson, the Bogue Sound watermelons taste different from a common North Carolina watermelon.
Winner: Bet Andrews
Episode 2215
Choosing the Right Mulch for Your Landscape
1. How much mulch should you have over your soil?
1-2 inches
3-4 inches
5-6 inches
7-8 inches
Answer: B. According to the Horticultural Leaflet on mulches, you should apply much about 3-4 inches over clean, weed-free soil.
Lichens…Harmful or Not?
Lichens are excellent indicators of…
Sunlight availability
Tides
Soil nutrients
Air quality
Answer: D. Lichens have no roots, so all of their nutrients come from rainwater. Therefore, if there are impurities in the rainfall, they will affect the lichens. In fact, pollution has endangered at least one native lichen species in North Carolina, the rock gnome lichen (Gymnoderma lineare).
Winner: Scott Watson
Episode 2216
Controlling Mole Crickets in Your Lawn
During which life cycle stage are pesticides most effective on mole crickets?
Egg
Nymph
Adult
Nothing gets rid of mole crickets
Answer: B. Karen recommends waiting until July and August, when the crickets are in the nymph stage. Nymphs usually hatch in June and July, and since the male dies after mating and the female dies after laying eggs, the adults don't post much of a danger in the summer. Nymphs will be molting during July and August, though, and therefore will be more vulnerable.
Restoring a Stream
Under which state university is the NC Stream Restoration Institute housed?
NC State University
UNC-Chapel Hill
UNC-Asheville
East Carolina University
Answer: A. The Institute is part of NC State's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, in the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering.
Winner: Phyllis Efoagui
Episode 2217
Renovating a Fescue Lawn
What herbicide does Sarah recommend to spread on your lawn to clear it?
Sevin
Triclopyr
Glyphosate
Imazaquin
Answer: C. Glyphosate is a common herbicide to use on broadleaf grasses. You can learn more about herbicide control by reading the North Carolina Agricultural Chemicals Manual.
How to Take a Soil Test
According to the Soil Testing section of the Consumer Horticulture Web site, if you want to take samples from an established area, how far into the soil should you dig for your sample?
2 inches
4 inches
6 inches
8 inches
Answer: B. For established areas, where amendments will be incorporated into the surface, dig four inches down. When beds are being established and have not had any amendments, dig eight inches down.
Winner: Willis Briggs
Episode 2218
Seeding a Fescue Lawn
How long after seeding should you fertilize a fescue lawn?
Immediately
1-2 weeks
2-3 weeks
4-5 weeks
Answer: C. According to Sarah Ivy, you should fertilize about 2-3 weeks after seeding your new lawn.
Fall Care of Azaleas
What is the last date that you can prune azaleas before the fall?
June 1
July 1
August 1
September 1
Answer: B. Emily Revels recommends not pruning azaleas after July 1.
Winner: JoAnn Uphold
Episode 1: April 3
1. Spring Lawn Care:
If your lawn has at least 50% weeds or bare spots, what should you consider doing?
Having it aerated.
Weeding it.
Having a renovation done.
Adding phosphorus.
Answer: C. If your lawn is more than 50% bare or full of weeds, you need to have a renovation done, including killing the weeds with RoundUp and using a tiller to loosen the soil.
2. Mail Order Plants
If your plant arrives with a bare root, what should you do with it?
Plant it in the ground.
Put it in some water.
Plant it in a pot with some soil.
Let it rest in the box for a few days.
Answer: B. After you remove a bare-root plant from its wrapping, you want to put the root in some water before placing it in soil.
No winner this week
Episode 2: April 10
1. Protecting Your Vegetables from Late Frost
According to the Quick Reference section in the Consumer Horticulture site, which vegetable(s) actually grow better if you plant them before April?
Bush beans
Turnips
Okra
Sugar peas
2 and 4
1 and 3
Answer: E. 2 and 4. Turnips can be planted as early as February in the Piedmont region and March in western North Carolina, and sugar peas can be planted in January in the Piedmont region and February in western NC.
2. Selecting the Right Pruners
When pruning shrubs, what is the most important thing to consider?
Types of pruning tools
Location of the cut
Timing
Answer: C. When deciding to prune shrubs, timing is usually the most important factor to consider. For example, in the case of flowering shrubs, when it flowers and whether it flowers on old wood or new wood will determine when to prune.
Winner: Donna Shields
Episode 3: April 17
1. Southern Ideal Home Show
Why is it important to plant raised beds earlier?
Because the soil warms up faster.
Because raised beds hold too much water.
Because the only plants you can include in raised beds have early planting times.
None of the above.
Answer: A. Raised beds don't have the advantage of collecting coolness and moisture from the rest of the ground, so the soil tends to absorb heat faster. As a result, the soil drains faster and can dry out quickly, leaving plants with little moisture.
2. Secrets of Growing Spring Broccoli
When is the best time to harvest broccoli?
When there are flowers blooming on the green broccoli florets.
When the broccoli flower heads are well-defined and the stem is fairly thick.
As soon as you can see the broccoli flower heads forming.
After the leaves turn dark green.
Answer: B. According to Bill Lord, choice A is too late and C is too early to harvest broccoli. Bill doesn't mention the color of the leaves.
Winner: Daniel Bagley
Episode 4: April 24
1. Selecting Containers for the Garden
What does Linda say is a good combination of plants for a container garden?
Plants that are different colors, all the same height.
Plants that are slightly variant in height and color.
Plants and large stones combined.
A combination of a tall plant, medium plant, and trailing plant.
Answer: D. Linda says that you should combine a tall plant, medium plant, and a trailing plant in a container garden. One of her suggested combinations is Northern sea oats, coleus and variegated lantana.
2. Growing Cabbage
According to the Consumer Hort Leaflet on cabbage located in the Consumer Horticulture site, if you live in the western part of the state, when typically are the best seeding dates for a fall crop?
Sept. 20 - Oct. 20
May 1 - June 15
July 15 - Sept. 15
Jan. 1 - Mar. 30
Answer: B. Since the western part of the state typically gets cooler sooner than the piedmont or eastern parts of the state, May 1 to June 15 is recommended for seeding for a fall crop. See the Consumer Hort Leaflet on cabbage.
Winner: Sara Thompson
Episode 5: May 1
1. Selecting Tomato Plants
If you buy an indeterminate type of tomato, what does Karen suggest to use to support its growth?
Trellis
Cage
Stake
Wire line on poles
Answer: C. A stake. You could probably also support the tomato plants using a trellis, depending on your space, but Karen doesn't mention that possibility in this episode. Indeterminate plants grow to be about 5-6 feet, so they would outgrow a cage or a wire line on poles (used to support bramble plants).
2. Creating a container garden
When you are looking for soil to put in a container garden, the soil should:
Be able to retain moisture indefinitely
Hold its shape when squeezed
Fall apart when squeezed
Be sandy.
Answer: C. In a container, you need a soil that has good aeration. Therefore you need the soil to fall apart and not stick together when you squeeze it.
Winner: Gerald Amos
Episode 6: May 8
1. Planting Bearded Iris
If your bearded iris contract iris borer, you will see:
Mottling of leaves
Dotted leaves
Pinkish area in rotted part
Reddish-brown “mustard seeds”
Answer: 4. Pinkish area in rotted part
2. Bio Retention Bed
According to the Consumer Hort Leaflet, what are some plants that you could put in a bio retention bed?
White spruce ( Picea glauca ), elderberry ( Sambucus Canadensis ) and water iris ( Iris laevigata )
Willow ( Salix spp. ), crepemyrtle ( Lagerstroemia indica ) and English holly
( Ilex aquifolium )
Frasier fir ( Abies fraseri ), winterberry ( Ilex verticillata ) and peonies ( Paeonia )
Carolina ash ( Fraxinus caroliniana ), flowering dogwood ( Cornus florida ) and lizard’s tail
( Saururus cernuus )
Answer: 1. White spruce ( Picea glauca ), elderberry ( Sambucus Canadensis ) and water iris ( Iris laevigata )
Winner: Beverly Greene
Episode 7: May 15
1. Building a Backyard Water Feature
If you didn't have a lot of time for maintenance, what would be a good shrub or tree to include around your water feature?
Dogwood
Red maple
Bigleaf Hydrangea
Juniper
Answer: D. Since you don't want to be constantly cleaning leaves and flower petals out of your water feature, you'll want a plant that does not lose its leaves (evergreen). The juniper is the only one of these choices that meets that criterion.
2. Growing Heirloom Tomatoes
An heirloom tomato is one that was developed before:
1960
1950
1940
1930
Answer: C. Heirloom tomatoes are varieties that were developed before 1940.
Winner: Thomas Gonzalez
Episode 8: May 22
1. Lily Varieties
According to Linda, what is the one color that you WON'T find in a daylily?
Red
Blue
Yellow
Pink
Answer: B. Linda says that daylilies come in every color but blue.
2. Recycled Gas Station
In Charles Brown's company in downtown Raleigh, what materials make up the wall insulation?
Fiberglass and cotton
Blue jeans and khaki
Wood chips
Recycled carpet
Answer: B. The wall is insulated with blue jean and khaki material.
Winner: Deborah Purdy-West
Episode 9: May 29
1. Weed ID and Control in Lawns
What product does Karen mention that is very effective on wild violets?
Weed B Gone
Speed Zone
Lebanon Team 2G
Statesman
Answer: B. Because wild violets are dicots (broadleaf) and perennial, they need an herbicide that works on the leaf. Of the four mentioned above, only Weed B Gone, Speed Zone and Statesman work on dicots. Karen states that in her experience, only Speed Zone is effective on getting rid of wild violets.
2. New Plant Delights Hosta Varieties
Hostas are native to:
India
Japan
England
Ireland
Answer: B. Hostas are native to Japan, China, and Korea.
Winner: John Underwood
Episode 10: June 19
1. Growing Figs
If figs are splitting before they are ripe, what could be the reason?
Nematode damage
Too much sun
Excessive nitrogen in the soil
Too much rain
Answer: D. Figs sometimes split as they are ripening because of uneven moisture or heavy rains.
2. Lawn Mower Safety
According to the Mowing Lawns page in the "quick reference" section of the Consumer Horticulture website at NC State, how much of the leaf surface should be cut with each mowing?
1/4 of the leaf surface
1/3 of the leaf surface
1/2 of the leaf surface
2/3 of the leaf surface
Answer: B. The Mowing Lawns page says that no more than 1/3 of the leaf surface should be removed with each mowing.
Winner: Janet Hester
Episode 11: June 26
1. Pruning Crepe Myrtles
1. What is the best way to prune your crepe myrtle?
Chopping off the top of the tree
Pruning the low growth from about 3 feet up the trunk
Cutting off all of the older branches
Cutting off all the branches that have flowers
Answer: B. Although many people do chop off the top of their crepe myrtles, Karen says that this can weaken the new growth and leave the tree susceptible to disease and insects. Cutting off the older branches would also cut new growth, where flowers form. And cutting off the branches that have flowers won’t hurt the tree, but it’s definitely not the BEST way to prune your crepe myrtle.
2. Growing Pumpkins
Go to the list of Horticultural Leaflets and find the leaflet for growing pumpkins and squash. According to this leaflet, you should not plant pumpkins in soils where certain plants have grown before. What are those plants?
Annuals
Any other vegetable
Any other vine crop
Fruit trees
Answer: C. Because pumpkins are susceptible to vine borers, it is not recommended to plant them where other vine crops have been before.
Winner: Thomas Kiziah
Episode 12: July 3
1. Summer Water Conservation
What would be a good combination of plants in one area if you are planning to conserve water?
Portulaca, snapdragon and phlox
Vinca, pansies and globe amaranth
Begonia, cosmos and Dahlberg daisy
Dahlberg daisy, lisianthus, and treasure flower
Answer: D. All of the plants in this group are drought-tolerant. Plants from the other groups have a mixture of high and low drought-tolerant plants, which would mean that you would have to water more frequently to keep the low drought-tolerant plants healthy. To see a complete list of stress-tolerant plants and their tolerance ratings, see the Horticultural Information Leaflet on Stress-Tolerant Plants.
2. Caring for Fruit Trees
What is something needed by ALL fruit trees to prevent the spread of disease?
Air circulation
Water
Sunlight
Fertilizer
Answer: A. Although the other factors are needed as well, they help more with plant growth than they do with disease prevention. Keeping branches separate so air can circulate helps to keep fruit trees from getting diseases.
Winner: Judy Pate
Episode 13: July 10
1. Making Great Soil with Compost
You should keep the ratio of carbon to nitrogen in your compost at:
5:2
30:1
20:1
10:10
Answer: B. The ratio needs to be 30 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen.
2. Controlling Earwigs & Millipedes
Besides moisture, what else is a main attraction for earwigs?
Heat
Light
Sugar
Millipedes
Answer: B. According to the Insect Notes at NC State's Cooperative Extension, earwigs also like lights.
Winner: Jeff Essic
Episode 14: July 17
1. Controlling Snakes
You are working in your garden, and you see a live snake. Assuming that you're not planning on picking up the snake, what is the BEST way to determine whether or not it is a poisonous snake without getting too close to it?
Looking at the underside of the snake to see if the scales divide halfway down the length of the snake
Looking for pits between the eyes and the nostrils
Looking at the head to see if it's triangular or oval
Looking at the eyes to see if the pupils are round or elliptical
Answer: C. Unless it's a very large snake and you have very good vision, the best way to tell if a snake is poisonous is to look at the head. Poisonous snakes have a distinctly triangular head, while non-poisonous snakes have more oval heads (they can be somewhat triangular, but they are not as distinct as they are with a poisonous snake). Often you can tell poisonous snakes by their markings, but if you're not familiar with them, they won't help. The best thing to do if you're not sure whether a snake is poisonous or not is to stay away from it!
2. Caring for Young Apple Trees
How far up the tree do you want to prune before you have branches?
10 inches
15 inches
17 inches
18 inches
Answer: D. Bill Lord recommends pruning between 18-20 inches up the tree before the first whorl of branches.
Winner: Gretchen Glahn
Episode 15: July 24
1. Controlling Mosquitoes
What is another term for a mosquito larva?
tumbler
diver
wiggler
trumpet
Answer: C. A mosquito larva is also commonly called a "wiggler" or "wriggler." "Tumblers" are mosquito pupae, and "trumpets" are the breathing tubes for the pupa. Two excellent sources for information on mosquito is the American Mosquito Control Association and the EPA Factsheet on Mosquitoes.
2. Porous Pavement that Prevents Pollution
What company is N.C. State University's test site for a permeable pavement that prevents stormwater runoff?
Bunkey's Car Wash
Mickey's Pastries
Appletree Honda
Duane Reade
Answer: B. In order to answer this question, you had to see the episode. Bill Lord explores a porous concrete pavement developed by Bill Hunt at N.C. State University, built outside Mickey's Pastries in Goldsboro. The pavement, which consists of 4-inch concrete blocks separated by drainage holes, actually purifies stormwater runoff to make the resulting groundwater safe for drinking.
Winner: Martha Rigsbee
Episode 16: July 31
1. Growing Sweet Corn
What common corn problem does Ustilago zeae cause?
Smut
Corn earworm
Root rot
Seed rot
Answer: A. Ustilago zeae is the fungus that causes smut in corn.
2. Controlling Poison Ivy
When is it safe to touch poison ivy?
When the leaves are not green
After the plant is dead
Winter, after it's lost its leaves
Never
Answer: D. In fact, it is NEVER safe to touch poison ivy at any time, even after the plant looks dead. The oil, urushiol, stays on the plant all season long, even for years. The urushiol can affect people even after the plant is dead.
Winner: Don Walraed
Episode 17: August 7
1. Growing Worms for Healthy Soil
What is the best group of worms to include in a compost bin?
Nightcrawlers
Red wigglers
Flatworm
Roundworm
Answer: B. Red wigglers are the most commonly used worm for vermicomposting. Nightcrawlers are the only other earthworm, but they feed on top of the soil and like their burrows undisturbed.
2. Controlling Carpenter Bees
What is one of the first signs that you have a problem with carpenter bees?
A slit-like opening
Mud tubes
A round half-inch diameter hole
Small, round holes surrounded by white powder
Answer: C. Carpenter bees made round, half-inch diameter entrance holes when making their tunnels. As for the other choices, carpenter ants make slit-like openings, termites make mud tubes and powderpost beetles make the holes surrounded by powder. For more information, see the Urban Pest Page at NC State for wood-damaging pests.
Winner: Larry Jones
Episode 18: August 14
1. Pruning Apple Trees
In general, apple trees need:
Eight hours of sunlight and lots of open space.
To be fertilized twice a year.
A moist area to grow
All of the above.
Answer: A. Apple trees need lots of light and air. They do need to be fertilized and watered, but fertilizing once a year is enough (in late winter or early spring), and they do NOT like to have wet feet, so planting in a moist site will kill the tree. Soil needs to be well-drained with plenty of organic matter. See the Fact Sheet for Apples at the Consumer Horticulture site for more information about growing apples.
2. Growing Fall Spinach
To what family does spinach belong?
Chenopodiaceae
Sapindaceae
Solanaceae
Fabaceae
Answer: A. Spinach, like chard and beets, belongs to the goosefoot (Chenopodiaceae) family.Sapindaceae is the soapberry family, which includes many plants that are toxic. Solanaceae is the nightshade family, including nightshade, Jimson weed, potatoes and tomatoes. Fabaceae is the legume family, including beans and other pod vegetables. See the Consumer Hort Leaflet on spinach for more information.
Winner: Cecilia Fain
Back to top
Episode 1: The Right Way to Test Your Soil
1. What is Mehlich-3?
A buffer method developed to measure the content of soil acidity
An extractant developed to measure amounts of major nutrients and micronutrients in soil
An extractant developed to measure nutrient content of acidic soils
A method that uses a set volume for measuring and calculating the nutrient content of soils
Answer: B. According to the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Mehlich-3 is effective on soils with a wide range of physical and chemical properties. See the Soil Test Methodologies page on the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Agronomic Division, Soil Testing Section Web site.
2. When you get your soil testing results back, in what measurement terms will your lime heading be?
mi/in2
cm/in
lbs/1000 ft2
kg/ha
Answer: C. Lime measurements are typically expressed in lbs per 1000 square feet.
Winner: Patricia C. Devlin
Episode 2: Lawn Mower Safety
1. What can you risk doing if you mow the lawn when it is wet?
Starting a lawn disease
Pulling the grass up by the roots
Spreading disease
None of the above
Answer: C. The Mowing Lawns page in the Consumer Horticulture site says that you can spread disease if you mow when the foliage is wet.
2. At the most, how much of the leaf surface should be cut with each mowing?
1/4 of the leaf surface
1/3 of the leaf surface
1/2 of the leaf surface
2/3 of the leaf surface
Answer: B. The Mowing Lawns page says that no more than 1/3 of the leaf surface should be removed with each mowing.
Winner: Debbie Harrill
Episode 3: Growing Tomatoes
1. According to the leaflet on pruning and supporting home garden tomatoes, which in the list below are all examples of determinate types of plants?
Colonial, Mountain Delight, Sunrise, Sunny
Mountain Delight, Better Boy, Fantastic, Mountain Pride
Better Boy, Big Boy, Fantastic, Cherokee
Mountain Pride, Cherokee, Big Boy, Sunrise
Answer: A. All of the other choices have at least one indeterminate type. Tomatoes have one of two types of growth patterns: determinate and indeterminate. Determinates are typically shorter plants (1-5 feet tall), whereas indeterminate types can grow as tall as 8 feet. See Pruning and Supporting Home Garden Tomatoes in the Consumer Horticulture site for more information.
2. Tomatoes are susceptible to blossom-end rot when:
The plants are watered too much
They are exposed to too much sun
The soil pH is too low
The roots are eaten by moles
Answer: C. Tomatoes with blossom-end rot have too little calcium, caused by a soil pH that is too low. Dry weather can exacerbate the problem. See the Blossom End-Rot page.
Winner: Leroy Norton
Episode 4: Mail Order Plants
1. If your plant arrives with a bare root, what should you do with it?
A. Plant it in the ground.
B. Put it in some water.
C . Plant it in a pot with some soil.
D. Let it rest in the box for a few days.
Answer: B. After you remove a bare-root plant from its wrapping, you want to put the root in some water before placing it in soil.
2. When your mail-order plant arrives, what is the first thing you should do?
A. Prepare your soil for planting.
B. Start filtering a bucket of water.
C. Test the planting space to be sure it has the right pH and drainage qualities.
D. Open the box and take out the plant.
Answer: D. Always remove the plant from the box before you prepare soil or water. An unboxed plant can die in a couple of days.
Winner: Felix Talbert
Episode 5: Growing Tender Broccoli
1. Which recent U.S. President said that he does not like broccoli?
Bill Clinton
Ronald Reagan
George H. W. Bush
Jimmy Carter
Answer: C. During George Bush's presidency, he said during a press conference that he did not like broccoli; however, he added that his judgment was his own personal preference and not a recommendation for farming considerations.
2. When is the best time to harvest broccoli?
When there are flowers blooming on the green broccoli florets.
When the broccoli flower heads are well-defined and the stem is fairly thick.
As soon as you can see the broccoli flower heads forming.
After the leaves turn dark green.
Answer: B. Choice A is too late and C is too early to harvest broccoli.
Winner: Elnora Dabbs
Episode 6: Propagating Plants in the Spring
1. When is the best time to transplant young seedlings?
After the first real leaves appear
After the plant is about 1" tall
After the outside temperature is at least 70 degrees on a consistent basis
After the ground begins to feel soft again
Answer: A. According to the Consumer Hort Leaflet on Starting Plants from Seeds, the best time to transplant young seedlings is after the first real leaves appear, usually 2 to 3 weeks after seeding.
2. The process of preparing a plant for outdoor growth is called:
Conditioning
Propagation
Weathering
Hardening
Answer: D. According to the Consumer Hort Leaflet on Starting Plants from Seeds, hardening is the process of conditioning a plant for growth outdoors.
Winner: John Mazurowski
Episode 7: Growing Cabbage
1. If you live in the western part of the state, when typically are the best seeding dates for a fall crop?
Sept. 20 - Oct. 20
May 1 - June 15
July 15 - Sept. 15
Answer: B. Since the western part of the state typically gets cooler sooner than the piedmont or eastern parts of the state, May 1 to June 15 is recommended for seeding for a fall crop. See the Consumer Hort Leaflet on cabbage.
2. What chemical should you add to the fertilizer for a successful cabbage crop?
Boron
Potassium
Phosphorus
Answer: A. The Consumer Hort Leaflet on cabbage recommends adding boron to the fertilizer.
Winner: John Underwood
Episode 8: Saving Water with Micro Sprinklers
1. What size pipe do you need to connect to the water source for microirrigation?
1 inch
1/2 inch
1/4 inch
1/3 inch
Answer: B. Nancy Anderson in this episode suggests using a 1/2 inch pipe to connect to the water source.
2. According to an efficient irrigation report by NC State, how many water emitters would you have to set up for a 4-6 foot plant to give it adequate water?
1
2
3
4
Answer: B. According to the Efficient Irrigation report by the NC Cooperative Extension Services, you would need 2 emitters to deliver water at a rate of 1 gallon per hour each. See Table 1 on the link above.
Winner: Cindi Poole
Episode 9: A Visit to the All Organic John Volmer Farm, Franklin County
1. To prevent plants in an organic garden from contracting diseases, what should you avoid doing?
Watering them in the morning
Planting vegetables in the same family group in the same area every year
Planting the vegetables too close together.
Answer: B. A family of plants can contract the same diseases, so you should avoid planting the same ones in the same area every year. See the Disease Prevention Page under Organic Gardening.
2. What crop was Volmer Farms one of the first in North Carolina to produce organically?
Strawberries
Lettuce
Broccoli
Answer: A. Volmer Farms was one of the first to grow strawberries organically.
Winner: Hilary Daugherty
Episode 10: Perennial Tour of Plant Delights Nursery
1. According to a report about propagation by division by the University of Florida, what are the two categories of flowering perennials that benefit from propagation by division?
Bulbs and plants with long roots
Bulbs and plants that clump
Plants that clump and thorny plants
Just plants that clump
Answer: B. According to the University of Florida Plant Propagation Workbook, "the two basic types of plants propagated by division are those with a clumping growth habit and those with specialized storage organs, often termed bulbous plants."
2. Division is categorized as what type of plant propagation?
Sexual
Layering
Asexual
Grafting
Answer: C. Because division does not involve starting the plant from a seed, it does not involve sexual reproduction. Choices B and D are also types of asexual propagation. See the University of Florida’s Landscape Plant Propagation Workbook for more information.
Winner: Sweetie Rains
Episode 11: Conserve Water by Using Recycled Water for Your Plants
1. In this episode, Karen Neill says that gray water includes every source of used water EXCEPT:
Laundry water
Shower water
Tub water
Toilet water
Answer: D. Karen says to avoid the use of used toilet water. Used toilet water is actually sewage and is known as black water.
2. If you are planning on using gray water, you should store it in:
A plastic container.
A metal container.
Neither A nor B.
Either A or B.
Answer: C. Gray water should be used immediately and NEVER stored, or it can collect bacteria. See the link from the Consumer Horticulture Web site on gray water.
Winner: Kathy Rains
Episode 12: Saving Seeds for Next Season
1. Why should you not collect seeds from hybrid plants?
The resulting plants will be weaker
The result will look just like the parent
It is difficult to control the outcome
Answer: C. According to Seed Saving Tips from West Virginia University, you should not plant hybrid seeds if you want plants with characteristics like the parents. Additional cross-pollination may create some very strange hybrids, but not necessarily weaker.
2. Tomato seeds can be saved if you soak them in water for a few days. What other vegetable seeds do you need to soak in order to save?
Cucumber
Eggplant
Peppers
Answer: A. Cucumbers have a gelatinous coating around the seeds which you have to soak in water for 2 days to get clean. See the Seed Saving Tips from West Virginia University.
Winner: Bart McWilliams
Episode 13: Growing Collards
1. What composition of fertilizer do collards need in average soil to grow well?
10-10-10
10-20-10
15-10-10
Answer: A. According to the Consumer Hort Leaflet on collards, you need to apply 1-2 lb of 10-10-10 per 100 square feet before planting, and 3 oz various times after planting.
2. What two diseases are collard plants typically susceptible to?
Seed rot and Downey mildew
Black rot and Cercospora leaf spot
Black rot and Downey mildew
Answer: C. The other diseases are common to beets.
Winner: Janet Hester
April 7
Feature: "Spring Tour of the J.C. Raulston Arboretum."
Q: What region of the state has the most formal gardens?
A: Despite being home to the state's largest cities, the NC Piedmont is also the region with the most signature gardens, with over 35 gardening sites, followed by the coast and then the mountain region.
What other Tar Heel gardening treasures can be found throughout the state? From Asheville to Manteo, North Carolina is home to all types of formal gardens, representing the very best in cultivation from the state's fertile landscape. For more information about North Carolina gardens, click here.
April 14
Feature: "Using Recycleables in the Garden," Nancy Anderson, Horticultural Agent, Cumberland County.Q: What kinds of recyclables can be used to keep crawling pests at bay?
A: When it looks like crawling bugs may threaten your favorite garden plants, old milk cartons may be just what the gardener ordered. By cutting the bottoms and tops from milk cartons and placing the resulting pieces one to two inches into the soil around the plants (at varying heights appropriate to the height of each plant), green thumbs everywhere can create the best de-fence against worrisome worms and sneaky slugs.
In addition, Tar Heel gardeners can combat meddlesome mites with aluminum foil. Because sunlight reflecting off the aluminum foil tends to deter mites, simply surround the stem of threatened plant with a sheet of the foil, anchoring it with stones.
April 21
Feature: "Controlling Bad Bugs With Good Bugs in the Garden," Karen Neill, Horticultural Agent, Guilford County.
Q: Which Tar Heel "lady" is most beneficial to North Carolina gardens, the lady bee, the lady beetle, or the ladybug?A: This one is a trick question.the lady beetle is also known as the ladybug. These special "ladies" commonly known for their tiny, oval shape and red color with black spots, lay many eggs which hatch into many more lady beetle larvae - beneficial babies that resemble tiny, short-snouted alligators with six legs.
For these bug babies, the next stage is the pupa. Pupae are about the size of the adults, but the legs and antennae are closely pressed to the body. Each of these lady beetle larva eats many aphids (the real plant sapsuckers that can discolor, wilt or deform your favorite plants) and plenty of other pests.
REMEMBER: The eggs of some lady beetles are yellow and less than 1/l6 inch long. And are often laid on end in small masses. Because lady beetle pupae do not resemble the cute red and black adults, many gardeners assume that lady beetle pupae are pests "sucking the life" out of the plant. Consequently, these pupae are squashed or scraped off and destroyed. Keep in mind, each ladybug pupa destroyed allows thousands of bad bugs to survive! To learn more about these benefiticial beetles, click here.
April 28
Feature: "Espaliering," Bill Lord, Environmental Agent, Franklin County.What is espaliering a what can it do for my garden?
Espaliering is a traditional European pruning technique dating back to the Middle Ages, when feudal lords planted fruit trees along the interior walls of castle courtyards to provide fresh fruit during long sieges.
Today, espalier refers to both the two-dimensional tree or shrub or the horticultural technique of actually training the plant.
Espaliered plants are used in today's landscape for both function and beauty. In an area where space is limited or where a plant is needed to decorate a large blank wall, the espalier is most helpful.
There are numerous espalier techniques to employ from the very simple, free flowing natural and informal designs to complicated formal patterns. Most informal espaliers do not which already has interesting or unique characteristics. Often a stunted or deformed plant is appropriate for an informal espalier.
What plants can provide the best decoration for NC yards and gardens?
Acer palmatum
Japanese Maple
Camellia japonica
Camellia
Camellia sasanqua
Sasanqua
Cercis canadensis
Redbud
Chaenomeles lagenaria
Flowering quince
Cotoneaster sp.
Cotoneaster
Euonymus alata
Winged Euonymus
Ficus carica
Fig
Forsythia intermedia
Forsythia
Ilex Cornuta 'Burford'
Burford holly
Jasminum nudiflorum
Winter Jasmine
Juniperus chinensis 'Pfitzeriana'
Pfitzer juniper
Magnolia grandiflora
Southern Magnolia
Magnolia stellata
Star Magnolia
Malus sp.
Apple, Crabapple
Photinia serrulata
Chinese Photinia
Pyracantha sp.
Pyracantha
Stewartia Koreana
Korean Stewartia
Taxus sp.
Yew
Viburnum sp.
Viburnum
For more information, on the best way to espalier, click here.
Taken from "ESPALIER" leaflet produced by: M. A. "KIM" POWELL
Extension Horticultural Specialist, Department of Horticultural Science
North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, North Carolina State University
May 5
Feature: "Accent Plants, Using Ornamental Grasses in the Landscape" Why are ornamental grasses popular for North Carolina landscapes?
Ornamental grasses are highly resistant to insect and disease problems, tolerant to heat and drought, and require little or no pruning. Two important requirements are full sun and well-drained soil. Ornamental grass species grow to various sizes, some growing to 10 to 15 ft, while others are considered dwarf plants used as ground covers.
Designers and gardeners realize the fine accent and architectural effect this group of plants contributes to a garden. As one applies the principles of good design - repetition, variety, balance, emphasis, sequence, and scale - along with the design qualities of color, texture, line and form, one appreciates the many uses and functions of ornamental grasses. (The term "ornamental grass" is really a catchall term used to describe all grasslike plants. These would include sedges, reeds, rushes, and a wide host of others.)
Most ornamental grasses would be described as having graceful, arching foliage, with several species being variegated. Seasonal interest is accomplished from spring "green- up" through the summer, with rich autumn colors in the fall and winter. The flower plumes on several species can be spectacular, giving interest for outdoor scale or dried and used indoors.
Ornamental grasses have several uses as functional landscape plants. When combined with a few evergreen shrubs, Pampas Grass (Cortaderia selloana), Zebragrass (Miscanthus sinensis zebrinus), or Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostisa cutiflora stricta) can create an excellent screen for privacy.
Most ornamental grasses can stand alone when used as an accent plant or focal point, especially when plumes of several species are abundant.
In addition, Blue Fescue (Festuca ovina glauca) with its blue-green foliage and fine texture is excellent as a ground cover in a small area. A favorite for eastern North Carolina on slopes or eroded areas is Weeping Lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula).
For more information on ornamental grasses that are a Tar Heel favorite, click here.
Information taken from Ornamental Grasses for North Carolina Produced by:
M. A. (Kim) Powell
Extension Horticultural Specialist
Department of Horticultural Science
May 12
Feature: "Growing Seedless Watermelons in the Home Vegetable Garden," Bill Lord, Extension Environmental Agent.
Q: Where did the idea of a watermelon that is sweeter, easier to eat, has a longer shelf life, and no messy seeds to clean up originate?
A: The concept of triploid (seedless) watermelons began in 1939 in Japan. Although small, white rudimentary seeds do develop within these watermelons, they are eaten along with the flesh just as immature seeds are eaten in cucumber.
Although the procedure for production of seedless watermelons has been known for almost 50 years and commercial varieties have been available for over 20 years, the interest in and acreage of seedless watermelons has remained small in North Carolina until recently. Erratic performance, poor seed germination, high seed costs, and inadequate varieties resulted in the lack of interest in seedless watermelon production in the past, but most of these deterrents have now been overcome. To learn more about how seedless watermelons are grown, click here.
May 19
Feature: " Ingredients for a Successful Herb Garden," Nancy Anderson, Horticultural Agent, Cumberland County.What are the basic guidelines for growing herbs?
An herb is any plant used whole or in part as an ingredient for health, flavor, or fragrance and conveniently enough, herbs as a group are relatively easy to grow.
When growing herbs follow these basic guidelines:
Plant herbs in average garden soil with organic matter added to improve texture and drainage.
Choose a site that receives at least 6 hours of direct sun each day.
Avoid ground where water stands or runs during heavy rains.
Compensate for poor drainage with raised beds amended with compost.
Apply balanced fertilizers sparingly to leafy, fast-growing herbs. Heavy applications of fertilizer, especially those containing large amounts of nitrogen, will decrease the concentration of essential oils in the lush green growth.
Plan your herb garden by grouping herbs according to light, irrigation, and soil requirements. Most herbs enjoy full sun, but a few tolerate shade. Herbs can be classified as either annual, biennial, or perennial. Be aware of the growth habits of the plants before you purchase them. Some herbs, such as borage, anise, caraway, chervil, coriander, cumin, dill, and fennel, should be direct-seeded, because they grow easily from seed or do not transplant well. Other herbs, such as mints, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and tarragon, should be purchased as plants and transplanted or propagated by cuttings to ensure production of the desired plant (do not come true from seeds).
For more information about herbs, their benefits and what it take to grow them effectively, click here.
Taken from Growing Herbs for the Home Gardener produced by:
Erv Evans, Extension Associate
Jeanine Davis, Extension Specialist
Department of Horticultural Science
North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service
North Carolina State University
May 26
Feature: "That Southwestern Look; Low Maintainance, Drought Resistance Landscape Plants," Tony Avent of Plant Delights Nursery.What drought resistant plants are most successful in this state?
Choosing plants native to North Carolina or plants that flourish during dry spells, doesn't mean just having a landscape of cacti, rocks and sand. It means having a landscape that is practical as well as visually pleasing, allowing Tar Heel gardeners to conserve water, time and money.
Drought-tolerant plants, shrubs and trees come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Here are just a few of the possible choices available at your local nursery: English ivy, clematis, black-eyed susan, verbena and purple coneflowers. Dwarf aucuba, barberry, boxwoods, glossy abelia, hollies and juniper are also popular selections. You can't overlook the beauty of nandina, flame azalea, Carolina rhododendron and forsythia. Favorite drought-tolerant trees include crape myrtle, red maple, river birch, flowering crabapple and a variety of oaks.
For more information about drought tolerant perennials, click here.
June 2
Feature: "Colorful Cannas Varieties," Mike Gray with Tony Avent, Plant Delights NurseryWhy are Cannas also known as Arrowroot or Indian Shot?
IN certain areas of the tropics, Cannas are cultivated for their edible root, which is a rich source of starch.
One possible reason for the nicknames is that Cannas is indigenous to the West Indies, where native people, the Arawaks, used the root powder. The Arawaks used the substance to draw out toxins from people wounded by poison arrows.
For more information about Cannas, click here.
June 9
Feature: "Growing Tasty Cantaloupes," Bill Lord, Environmental Agent with Jonathan Schultheis, Extension Horticultural Specialist.What NC town is famous for its cantaloupes?
The small town of Ridgeway, located in northeastern NC is known nationwide, and, in some places, worldwide, for its tasty cantaloupes. In the 1800's the same skilled German farmers who began producing cantaloupes and other fruits for Civil war soldiers, used The Raleigh & Gaston Railroad depot in Ridgeway, (one of the first two railroads in North Carolina), to the distribute the local's favorites cantaloupes nationwide. The tasty Ridgeway cantaloupe became very well known at many fine establishments in the early 20th century ten of thousand melon crates were shipped from the little Ridgeway depot. Although the train is gone today, the legacy of the Ridgeway cantaloupe still continues put this small town on the map.
June 16
Feature: "Controlling Fire Ants" with Charlie Apperson, Extension Entomology Specialist
How do you get rid of fire ants?
Unfortunately, there is no way to get rid of fire ants completely. However, you can eliminate them in contained areas or reduce the level of infestation. As in other ant treatments, you have two choices: to treat each mound separately or to spray over a general area. Treating each mound is more environmentally safe because you use only a fraction of the insecticide needed for a general area. Regardless of which method you use, however, you need to kill the queen because she is the only member of the colony capable of laying eggs.
See http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/ent/notes/Urban/ifa-treat.htm for more information.
June 23
Feature: "Grass Recycling" with Karen Neill, Horticultural Agent, Guilford County
Why should I bother recycling my grass? Can't I just bag it?
A new North Carolina law prohibits yard waste, including grass clippings, from being discarded in landfills (as of January 1, 1993). Grass clippings make up about 50% of yard waste, which in turn comprises about 30% of landfill waste. Because you can recycle grass clippings, you really don't need to throw them out. In addition, most new lawnmowers come with attachments for mulching your grass as you cut it, so you don't have to rake afterwards. Recycled grass can also serve as a fertilizer for your lawn, saving you time and money. In fact, grass clippings can generate up to 25% of your lawn's yearly fertilizer needs. Your lawn will stay greener as a result, and you will be helping to protect the environment.
Contact the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources for more information about Senate Bill III.
For more information about recycling grass click here.
June 30
Feature: "Funky Urban Garden," Bill Lord with Edith EddlemanWhat kinds of vegetables can I grow in a garden when I just have a city lot?
Your can grow virtually anything except for corn, which needs a large plot of land to cross-pollinate. First, be sure that wherever you plant your garden receives five hours or more of sunlight daily. Leafy vegetables like cabbage and mustard greens tolerate more shade than root vegetables like radishes and beets. Fruit-bearing plants like peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers need the most sun. You can also plant peppers and tomatoes in a large container and leave them on your deck. Carrots make attractive borders on sidewalks. If you have a fence, there are many vining types of vegetables like cucumbers and melons. Pole beans also do well on fences. If you are growing melons, as they begin to enlarge, tie the fruit to the fence in a sling made of nylon hose, so they don't drop off the plant before they are completely ripe.
For more information about urban gardening, see http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/hil/hil-8102.html.